Spiny Talking Catfish

Acanthodoras spinosissimus is one of the most heavily armed of the smaller doradids, covered in rows of sharp spiny scutes that make it very difficult to handle safely. Found in the Amazon basin of Brazil and Peru, it inhabits areas with abundant wood and leaf litter in slow or standing water. Its dark brown base colour with lighter mottling provides excellent camouflage in its natural environment.

In common with all talking catfish, it produces audible stridulatory sounds when removed from water or startled. These sounds are generated by the movement of pectoral spines in a groove and by swimbladder vibration. In the aquarium, the fish is almost completely nocturnal and secretive, rarely emerging before the lights dim.

Despite its fearsome armament, Acanthodoras spinosissimus is a gentle catfish that harms no tankmates of suitable size. It feeds primarily on invertebrates, snails, and organic detritus in the wild, and accepts similar fare in captivity. It is a rewarding species for catfish enthusiasts who appreciate its bizarre armoring and vocal capabilities.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 2–15). Tank: 120 L minimum; tight caves essential; fine sand or smooth gravel; handle with thick gloves due to sharp scutes. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, snails, earthworms; nocturnal feeder — feed after lights-out. Breeding: Not reported in captivity; presumed cave spawner requiring seasonal simulation. Compatibility: Peaceful with appropriately sized tankmates; avoid nano fish and dwarf shrimp.